Bayer MaterialScience has been issued the permit for the expansion and operation of its hydrochloric acid facility in Dormagen. The Cologne district authority issued the corresponding ruling following a detailed appraisal. The company can now move forward with the European-wide marketing of hydrochloric acid, which occurs as a by-product in the production of polyurethane raw materials. The volume will increase as result of the world-scale plant for the production of TDI (toluene diisocynate) currently under construction. Greater use will be made in the future of the hydrochloric acid as starting material for other production operations both inside and outside Chempark Dormagen. Expansion of the hydrochloric acid facility is taking place while operations continue, and is scheduled for completion in the second half of this year.
“We are pleased that the permit process has been concluded successfully. The project is very important for the expansion of our European-wide marketing of hydrochloric acid and is a key piece in the commissioning of the new TDI plant," said Andreas Amling, Head of Basic Chemicals at Bayer MaterialScience.
The company currently is investing some €250 million in the new TDI facility. The chemical is needed as a precursor for the production of flexible polyurethane foams, which are used to make many everyday products such as mattresses and car seats. Including the plans of additional area companies to build plants associated with the production of TDI, overall investment in the Chempark totals more than €400 million.
